Anvil Strong Ode To Smithy – Britain’s Longest Serving Blacksmith

Britain’s longest-serving blacksmith is still forging iron in his workshop – at the age of 84. Hardy Fred Harriss, 84, first picked up a hammer and tong aged ten in 1938 and is still working every day 74 years later. He has worked back-breaking 12 hour days fixing steam engines and aircraft, as well as making railings and ornamental iron pieces. And the hardy blacksmith – who refuses to wear gloves for the blistering work – claims he will NEVER retire from the job.

To these skilled artisans we tip our hats, thanks for inspiring us to stand Anvil strong! Special thanks to David Hedges for putting together this beautiful short film tribute to the craft and for letting Hardy tell his story.